The Field of Mars was used for many years as a training ground for guards' regiments, and parades on it were immortalized by dozens of Russian painters and poets. The Emperor Paul was particularly partial to military parades on the Field of Mars, and had his official residence - the Mikhailovsky Castle - built on the other side of it from Catherine's Palace. But in the second half of the 19th century the Field of Mars once again became a place for ordinary people to spend their leisure time, with lots of attractions and amusements.

In 1917, the remains of those who died during the February Revolution were ceremonially buried on the Field of Mars, and the site assumed another function as a burial ground for heroes of the Revolution. In 1917-1919 a monument to "Fighters for the Revolution" was created here

During the Siege of Leningrad the Field of Mars became a huge vegetable garden, and after the siege was lifted a salute was fired from the field.

In 1957 the Eternal Flame was lit on the Field of Mars in memory of the victims in St. Petersburg of all wars and revolutions.

Myths and Legends

According to legend, the Emperor Paul was so enraged by the performance of the Preobrazhensky Regiment at one parade that he shouted to the soldiers, "About face ... quick march! To Siberia!". The terrified soldiers obeyed the order, marching out of the city and heading for Siberia. News of their pardon only caught up with them when they reached Novgorod.

 Адрес: St. Petersburg, Russia